He will start the role in the new year.

Avaloq, the Swiss fintech house, has named Juerg Hunziker as its new chief executive, taking the reins from Francisco Fernandez who will focus on the role of group chairman. 

Hunziker will start his new role on 1 January, 2018. 

He will lead the firm’s strategy and oversee some 2,000 staff in preparation for a potential initial public offering (IPO) “in the coming years,” Avaloq said. 

“He will focus on expanding the company’s global business and facilitate the integration of new business following potential acquisitions,” Avaloq said in a statement. “Pursuing Avaloq’s international expansion will be a further key focus area for Juerg Hunziker, while also working closely with the already strong customer base in Switzerland.”

Hunziker joined the firm in 2016 as deputy CEO and group chief marketing officer.

Upon stepping down, Fernandez will “concentrate on his role as the group chairman and focus on innovation, strategy and acquisitions,” Avaloq said. 

“Juerg and myself are a well attuned team, and with him as the group CEO, we have found the perfect setup to drive Avaloq’s growth,” Fernandez said. “Juerg knows how to consequently execute a strategy. He is a very strong leader, a pragmatic entrepreneur and a true industry expert. I will continue to dedicate all my energy to the acceleration of Avaloq’s growth, success and driving innovation.”